Maternal and Child Care in an Iranian Village

Between 1965 and 1967 a nurse anthropologist conducted an ethnographic study in Murkan a small Muslim village in central Iran to learn socialization practices family structure and the role of women. Women considered marriage pregnancy and childbirth to be the most significant activities in their lives and ones which granted women status happiness and security. In fact no alternatives for females existed. Mothers-in-law ruled over young brides often resulting in a hard life. Most girls married at 13-14 years old. Grooms tended to be 10 years older than brides. Discussions of sexual matters between mother and daughter were not allowed. Eldest sons became responsible for deceased fathers households including mothers and single sisters. The wedding was the most significant event in a boys life. Parents preferred having sons because sons improved their social status and in the case of women assured them security. Even though parents were happiest at the birth of a son no differences in infant care existed. On the other hand sons had more freedom and received the best bits of food when they were older. Women did not tell husbands of a suspected pregnancy. Yet they did not conceal their pregnancy. They did not arrange for a midwife but midwives attended most women during labor. Deliveries occurred at home. Mothers feared for the health of their babies they were especially fearful of the evil eye. Toilet training typically began at 8-9 months. They breast fed their babies on demand. Supplementary foods began at 4-5 months. Mothers broke close ties with their children abruptly at 2 years old mainly because mothers time and energy had to be dedicated to a new baby. Modesty training began for girls as early as 2 years but they did not need to wear a veil until 7. A US nurse working with Iranian families must know the differences in cultural practices in Iran and in the US and be flexible and willing to adapt to the health and nursing care needs of Iranian families.